Colorado Springs food bank feels the pressure of COVID-19

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- A Colorado Springs food bank is in overdrive as a result of the novel coronavirus.

On Tuesday, Care and Share announced they are constructing 3,000 food boxes for "those most impacted by school closures, suspension of local services, and social distancing."

Lynne Telford, Chief Executive Officer of the food bank, said in a release, "Our biggest challenge is that we must maintain our food supply to match growing demands."

The food bank started creating "emergency COVID-19 boxes" that are distributed in the same spots where students are getting their daily lunches.

Shannon Brice, Cheif Operating Officer of the food bank, said, "The school districts are deciding on their level how they’re distributing them."

In the boxes are non-perishable items like macaroni and cheese, soup, beans, canned salmon and canned fruit, all items that can last a family if they have other food that might expire.

The boxes are filled by an assembly line of no more than 10 people, following the social guidelines suggested by President Trump this month.

Among the volunteers Wednesday was Star Davis. She's in the vulnerable age group but said she wanted to help.

"I feel that this is where I'm supposed to be, where I should be, helping people who don't have food. We're all going to end up there!"

Telford says they are most in need of healthy volunteers like Davis, and monetary donations.

"Our truck drivers are going to grocery stores but right now there isn't much to give to us."

In that case, the food bank relies on distributors where they buy food directly.

"We really need to buy food more than ever," Telford says. "We pay for transportation and handling, so we're working our budget to bring in as much food as we can.

Care and Share Food Bank serves as the supplier for over 100 food pantries across southern Colorado. For a list of pantries, click here.

If you'd like to donate or volunteer, click here.